Great Basin National Park protects a remarkable landscape of desert valleys, ancient trees, limestone caves, alpine lakes, forests, and rugged mountains in eastern Nevada. Rising from the dry Great Basin desert to the 13,063-foot summit of Wheeler Peak, the park offers extraordinary variety along with hiking, cave tours, camping, wildlife, and some of the darkest night skies in the United States.

Lehman Caves provides an underground contrast to the mountain scenery above. Ranger-guided tours lead visitors through limestone passages filled with stalactites, stalagmites, shields, and other formations. Because the cave can only be explored on a guided tour, planning ahead is important for travelers who want to include it in their visit.

Above ground, the ancient bristlecone pines are among Great Basin’s most remarkable attractions. Some of these trees have survived for thousands of years in harsh high-elevation environments. Trails near Wheeler Peak provide opportunities to walk among bristlecones while experiencing mountain forests, rocky slopes, and views across the surrounding basin.

Hiking is one of the best things to do in Great Basin National Park. Trails range from short nature walks to challenging routes toward alpine lakes and Wheeler Peak. Wheeler Peak Scenic Drive climbs from the desert toward the high country, allowing visitors to experience dramatic changes in elevation, vegetation, and temperature.

Wildlife watching, photography, camping, backpacking, fishing, ranger programs, and scenic driving provide additional ways to explore. After sunset, Great Basin becomes especially memorable. Its remote Nevada location and limited surrounding development create exceptional conditions for stargazing and viewing the Milky Way.

There are no traditional hotels inside Great Basin National Park. Campgrounds provide overnight options, while nearby Baker and other communities offer lodging, restaurants, fuel, and limited visitor services.

Whether you come to explore Lehman Caves, hike among ancient bristlecone pines, climb Wheeler Peak, or spend a night beneath an exceptionally dark sky, Great Basin National Park rewards travelers who make the journey to this remote corner of Nevada.